20th Annual Illinois Storytelling Festival

The 20th Annual Illinois Storytelling Festival is taking place this weekend in Spring Grove, IL. Storytellers from around the country will be gathering to perform under five big top tents including the Family Tent, Adult's Tent, Children's Tent and Traditions Tent. Ghost stories will be told Saturday night, and a Liar's Contest and open mic will be taking place on the Swapping Grounds. See the schedule for full details. Admission is $12 for adults, $5 for kids under 15.

World Music Festival

The World Music Festival is on right now through September 21. Enjoy music from Greece, Argentina, Ghana, and just about everywhere else at a variety of venues around town. Most events are $15 or less and many are free.

A Pussycat Benefit

Burlesque team Ravenous Gorge and Tom Erge owe huge vet bills for emergency life-saving surgery on their cat. Help them out at A Pussycat Benefit, El Gato Negro, 1461 W. Irving Park Rd. $8-15 (not turned away for lack of funds) 21+. For your enjoyment and to express gratitude for your support, the benefit will feature Gurlesque Burlesque performers Betsy Chainsaw, Ravenous Gorge, and the queer confusion core art punk outfit Apartment, as well as, the infamous faggot punk rockers The Rotten Fruits; drag shows including Lusty Lez and Triage Sparkle. Plus a kissing booth, raffles, auctions...play Twister with Jesus...and more. This will be the first of more benefits to help animals who need medical care.